The Spring Valley House–Sulfur Springs Hotel, constructed around 1849 in rural Utica Township, LaSalle County, Illinois, stands as an unusually large historic former hotel. Situated along Dee Bennett Road, the four-story, 63 by 42-foot brick and limestone structure combines Greek Revival elements with vernacular stonework, indicating its significant role in the area. Its size was necessary because it served a dual purpose: it hosted general travelers due to its convenient location near the Illinois River and a major stagecoach route, while simultaneously operating as a resort destination. This resort function was centered around the property’s natural features, specifically the three sulfur hot springs, one of which still has a dedicated spring house built over it.
The hotel’s successful operation was entirely dependent on the pre-railroad era of travel. However, the completion of the Chicago and Rock Island Railroad through the region effectively sealed the hotel’s fate. As river and stagecoach traffic dramatically declined, the steady flow of both travelers and resort guests ceased, making the grand operation unsustainable. The Spring Valley House–Sulfur Springs Hotel was forced to close sometime after 1862, leaving behind a substantial architectural reminder of the area’s brief period as a major transit stop and health destination. It stands on private property but I did get this pic from the road.
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